“Practising Mindfulness has been shown to alter the structure and function of the brain, which is what allows us to learn, acquire new abilities, and improve memory.” DR. ROMIE MUSHTAQ

Mindfulness trains the mind to be observant and responsive to the many challenges we face every day and is proven method for success. The regular practice of Mindfulness has ongoing benefits for physical and mental health. Research over the past few decades has found that Mindfulness training helps too;

We have been running mindfulness programs in schools as well as our studio in Fitzroy for the last year. (taught by a certified children’s personal trainer, yoga teacher, meditation and mindfulness teacher) – I was amazed as each session I learn so much from the kids as they do from me. I love it and the kids are amazing beings such beautiful souls. Our mindfulness meditation in schools and our studio confirms so many benefits: it increases optimism and happiness, decreases bullying and aggression, increases compassion and empathy for others and helps students resolve conflicts and day to day challenges.

We love asking the kids what they think mindfulness means> or is? We love the responses from the kids it puts a smile on my face at every session. Some of the answers I have received are “chilling from our troubles and stress,” “keeping peace in your head” it’s like swimming in the ocean and when the waves of a wash over you, the stress goes from your body” These are some of my fav responses. We have so many responses they always make me smile.

Our classes on offer run for 45m the response feedback from the kids is mind blowing.

Sarah says “When I came to class I was angry and wanted to punch my brother in the face. After 45m I felt like I was floating on a cloud, and afterwards, I hugged my brother”.

John says “My mum dragged me to the class because she says I have a temper. I think I’m ok. After a few classes, I learned to breathe and count to ten before I lose my temper. It’s fun and I think I’m getting better as mum is happier and I feel better”

Jane says “I wanted to know what it was all about as everyone is talking about it. I learned to speak up for myself and feel more confident and I love the breathing buddy exercise its fun”

Rex says “I like the smell game its fun and sometimes we get to eat the orange”.

Lizzie says “I feel happier after the session and I love my mum and dad more as they do things for me”

Mindfulness meaning is a state of active, open attention on the present. When you’re mindful, you observe your thoughts and feelings from a distance, without judging them good or bad. Instead of letting your life pass you by, mindfulness means living in the moment and awakening to experience.

The regular practice of Mindfulness has ongoing benefits for physical and mental health. Research over the past few decades has found that Mindfulness training helps too;

Relieve Anxiety & Stress

In our fast paced lives, where we rush from one demand to another, there is very little time or space to stop and pause. Mindfulness offers the tools needed to connect with our inner intelligence, where we can access natural calmness beneath the busy minds.

There are so many positive physiological benefits to students and adults when mindfulness programs are running in their schools or workplace. We also have after school sessions @ vibes fitness Fitzroy. The students and parents have commented that they have Improved sleep habits, concentration. Memory, emotional regulation, and empathy reducing stress and anxiety levels, improved behaviour, managing emotions, and lower bullying behaviour in schools. We run after school programs at our studio in Fitzroy and it’s all about resilience building improving the mental health of our children. It’s such a powerful process and helps with managing stress with the lead up to exams. I’m constantly blown away by the reaction to the kids in the class after each session. They really get into it and I can see it working and lowers levels of mental health problems.

In fact, it teaches kids to be kids again fun loving and free and they leave smiling and happy skipping out of the studio. Our classes commence again soon -45 m sessions @ 21 $ we will add the classes on timetable shortly

References below and other links are written by herald sun.

New research proves that mindfulness has endless benefits for children and the experts want it on the national curriculum by 2020. Liz graham reports from the herald sun (mind body & soul)

Vibes Fitness funds and supports Celebrating Abilities Inc

Not for profit (Registered Charity with DGR status), This program is available for all ages, children to adults. Carers, guardians and or parents. Our focus in on Abilities, not the disability. We have worked with clients who have mental health and physical health challenges. Click to watch our video http://celebratingabilities.org.au/

Meet Margie

Margie Cerato, the founder of Vibes Fitness has over 30 years experience in the health, wellness, exercise & rehab, fitness industry. Margie's thirst & passion for knowledge has her educating and updating her qualifications every six months. Margie is always studying, researching the latest information and exercises ensuring that value is added to her clients. She has worked with over 5,000 clients. 5 years ago Margie set up a Not For Profit "Celebrating Abilities" where the focus is on Ability, not the disability. She loves making a difference in people's … Read more here

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